A 22-year-old Newberry man, identified as Roy Metcalf, faces serious charges for allegedly abusing his five-week-old infant, according to statements made by Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel. Metcalf has been arraigned on two counts of First-Degree Child Abuse, which in the state of Michigan, can lead to a life sentence. The case surfaced when Michigan Children’s Protective Services received a notification from Helen DeVos Children’s Hospital regarding suspected abuse.
Reports indicate that the infant, after being brought in by her parents to a local hospital, suffered from injuries that included a fractured femur and subdural hemorrhaging. The child's mother and father, Roy Metcalf, initially sought care at Helen Newberry Joy Hospital in Luce County before the infant was transferred to Munson Medical Center in Grand Traverse County and Helen DeVos Children’s Hospital in Kent County. Metcalf now faces one count of First-Degree Child Abuse for each injury.
In a press release on Michigan's Government website, Attorney General Nessel stated, "Cases of child abuse are deeply disturbing and heartbreaking, especially when they involve a child as young as five weeks old.” “My office remains committed to prosecuting those who would harm our most innocent and vulnerable to the fullest extent of the law."
Metcalf, who has been granted a personal bond, is scheduled to reappear before the court on May 15.
